Huanim  of  Natural  ftatoru 


FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY. 

PUBLICATION  146. 
ORNITHOLOGICAL  SERIES.  VOL    I    No    6 



CATALOGUE  OF  A  COLLECTION 
OF  BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA 


BY 

JOHN  FARWELL  FERRY, 

Assistant,  Division  of  Ornithology. 


CHARLES  B.  CORY, 
Curator  of  Department  of  Zoology. 


CHICAGO,  U.  S.  A. 

September,  1910. 


CATALOGUE  OF  A  COLLECTION  OF  BIRDS  FROM 

COSTA  RICA.* 


BY  JOHN  FARWELL  FERRY. 


The  birds  considered  in  this  paper  were  collected  in  Costa  Rica 
during  January,  February  and  March  of  1908  in  localities  upon  the 
country's  Atlantic  slope.  Though  the  rainy  season  was  in  progress, 
collecting  was  not  seriously  interfered  with  considering  the  time  as  a 
whole. 

Guayabo  was  visited  from  January  15  to  February  6.  The  term 
Guayabo  appears  to  apply  generally  to  a  rich  grazing  district  lying 
several  hours'  horseback  journey  below  Turrialba  Station  on  the 
Northern  Railway  of  Costa  Rica.  This  locality  is  one  of  heavily 
forested  slopes,  cut  by  deep  wooded  ravines,  and  interspersed  with 
great  reaches  of  luxuriant  lawn.  Lofty,  wide-branching  trees  stand 
singly  or  in  groups  about  the  lawns,  and  are  a  picturesque  feature  of  the 
landscape.  They  play  an  important  part  in  the  bird-life  of  the  region. 
The  top  of  each  tree,  a  small  forest  in  itself,  attracts  a  great  number  of 
birds  at  dusk,  which  come  to  roost  for  the  night.  About  sun-down 
these  tree-tops  seem  fairly  alive  with  birds. 

Don  Juan  Gomez  was  my  host  at  Guayabo,  and- at  his  comfortable 
estate  everything  was  done  for  my  comfort  and  to  assist  me  in  my 
work.  The  consideration  and  courtesy  he  extended  to  me  is  so  highly 
appreciated  that  a  mere  mention  of  it  seems  totally  inadequate. 

With  pack  animals,  a  journey  of. some  twenty  miles  was  made  in  a 
northerly  direction  from  Cartago,  a  former  capital  of  the  Republic. 
The  locality  thus  reached  is  known  as  Coliblanco,  an  extensive  region 
situated  upon  one  of  the  buttressing  slopes  of  the  Volcan  de  Turrialba 
at  an  altitude  of  about  6,500  feet.  The  region  is  heavily  timbered, 
hilly,  and  cut  by  numerous  ravines  through  which  small  mountain 
torrents  flow.  Numerous  clearings  are  cultivated  or  used  for  grazing. 
My  headquarters  were  at  the  estate  of  Don  Aurelio  Calleja,  a  pros- 
perous resident  of  Cartago.  The  scenery  at  Coliblanco  was  of  great 
beauty,  the  more  rugged  growth  of  a  high  altitude  blending  with 
tropical  luxuriance.  Collecting  was  fairly  good  in  this  locality, 


*Posthumous;    Mr.  Ferry  died  February  n,  1910. 

257 


258     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

though  dense  shrubbery  and  jungle-grown  ravines  offered  many  a 
retreat  where  birds,  though  abundant,  could  not  be  secured.  The 
collector's  most  serious  difficulty,  however,  was  due  to  the  abundance 
of  parasitic  growths  upon  the  trunks  and  branches  of  the  trees. 
Epiphytes,  ferns,  orchids  and  climbing  vines  occurred  in  such  pro- 
fusion that  many  a  bird,  fairly  killed,  would  lodge  during  its  fall  in 
one  of  these  parasites.  Its  recovery  was  usually  impossible.  Back 
of  the  potrero,  or  pasture,  surrounding  the  Calleja  estate,  was  a  steep 
forested  slope.  A  climb  of  a  thousand  feet  brought  one  to  a 
series  of  grass-covered  meadows,  dotted  with  tall  trees,  shrubbery, 
and  hemmed  in  by  gloomy  forests.  Here  the  bird-life  was  noticeably 
different  from  that  lower  down.  The  Calandria  or  Three-wattled 
Bell-bird,  was  here  in  abundance,  though  absent  below.  Other  birds 
found  here  in  large  numbers,  though  rare  or  absent  at  the  lower  level, 
were  Myioborus  aurantiacus,  Myioborus  torquatus,  Oreothlypis  guttur- 
alis  and  Catharus  gracilirostris.  Quezals  were  reported  as  being  very 
common  here. 

The  nights  at  Coliblanco  were  extremely  chilly  and  the  days  varied 
from  moderate  to  cool.  Much  rain  fell  during  my  stay,  which  extended 
from  February  8  to  23. 

The  next  region  visited  was  at  the  base  of  the  Ash-cone  of  the 
volcano  of  Turrialba,  at  an  altitude  of  about  9,000  feet.  It  was  a  five 
hours'  climb  by  pack  animals  from  Coliblanco.  Don  Francisco  Gutier- 
rez gave  me  lodgings  at  his  lecheria,  or  dairy-farm,  and  was  a  most 
agreeable  companion  and  kind  host.  Collecting  was  done  here 
from  February  23  to  March  2.  The  natural  beauty  of  the  region 
excites  the  greatest  admiration.  The  lecheria  was  in  the  midst  of  an 
open  park-like  forest.  The  foliage  varied  from  the  brightest  green 
to  copper  color,  while  each  tree  bore  flowers  of  various  hues,  either  of 
its  own  or  of  some  parasitic  growth,  as  of  vines,  bromeliads,  or  orchids. 
As  can  be  imagined,  the  park  was  a  paradise  for  hummers  as  well  as 
for  other  insectivorous  birds  that  preyed  upon  the  insects  that 
sought  the  flowers.  A  heavy  forest  surrounds  the  Ash-cone,  and 
many  deep  and  densely  wooded  ravines  make  much  of  the  region 
almost  impassable.  However,  grassy  slopes  occur  here  and  there, 
a  boon  alike  to  the  cattle-raiser  and  the  collector.  Two  characteristic 
birds  of  this  place  are  the  Quezal  and  the  Three-wattled  Bell-bird. 

The  volcano  was  ascended  to  its  summit  (11,067  feet)  and  its 
sole  avian  inhabitants  were  the  Volcano  junco  and  Selasphorus 
torridus. 

On  March  3  the  journey  to  sea-level  was  begun.     Odd  days  were 


SEPT..  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  259 

utilized  for  collecting,  on  January  14  at  Turrialba  Station  and  on 
March  9  at  Port  Limon. 

Acknowledgments  are  gratefully  made  to  the  United  Fruit  Com- 
pany, who  gave  me  much  advice  and  kindly  treatment,  including  the 
placing  at  my  disposal  of  a  part  of  their  shipping-room.  Here,  with 
excellent  facilities  and  materials  for  packing,  I  was  able  to  prepare 
my  specimens  for  shipment  with  great  success.  Mention  should  also 
be  made  of  a  provision  made  for  me  by  Mr.  Musgrove,  Superintendent 
of  the  Electric  Lighting  Plant  of  Port  Limon.  In  a  warm,  dry  place 
near  the  boilers  I  was  allowed  to  dry  perfectly  several  hundred  skins. 
The  humid  conditions  at  the  coast  made  the  drying  of  these  skins  im- 
possible without  the  aid  of  artificial  heat. 

I  also  gratefully  acknowledge  courtesies  extended  to  me  by  the 
Northern  Railway  of  Costa  Rica.  They  placed  at  my  disposal  trans- 
portation facilities  which  allowed  me  the  fullest  possible  use  of  their 
lines.  Mr.  Donaldson,  the  United  States  Consul  at  Port  Limon,  has 
also  my  grateful  appreciation  for  services  rendered. 

Finally,  I  wish  to  thank  Mr.  Ridgway  and  others  at  the  National 
Museum,  \\  ho  kindly  assisted  me  in  the  identification  of  several  puz- 
zling species. 


ArdeidaeJ 

Tigrisoma  excellens  Ridg. 

i  specimen  said  to  have  been  taken  at  Juan  Vinas,  near  Turrialba 
Station.     The  skin  was  given  to  me.     It  is  an  immature  bird  (sex?). 


Falcoiiidae. 

Buteo  platypterus  (Vieill.). 

2  specimens.  9  ad.  Coliblanco.  February  n  ;  9  im.  Port  Limon, 
March  9. 

Hicrastur  interstes  Bangs. 

i  specimen.       T  ad.  Guayabo. 

This  specimen  is  referred  to  the  above  form  recently  described  by 
Bangs,  as  it  occurs  within  the  range  allotted  to  the  new  species,  in 
fact  not  far  from  Cartago,  the  type  locality.  The  bird  was  perched 
at  the  edge  of  a  small  clearing  in  a  dense  forest  and  allowed  a  close 
approach.  The  stomach  contained  hair  of  a  small  mammal. 


260      FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I 

Falco  sparverius    Linn. 

5  specimens.     Guayabo  3$,  i  c?  ;   Coliblanco  icT. 
These  specimens  are  easily  referable  to  the  eastern  form.     This 
species  was  common  about  Guayabo. 


CracidtB. 

Chamaepetes  unicolor  Salv. 

2  specimens.  Volcan  de  Turrialba  2  9  .  Quite  common  in  the 
deep  heavily-wooded  ravines  about  the  volcano  at  timber-line.  The 
bare  skin  in  front  of  the  eyes  is  ultramarine  in  life.  These  birds  are 
favorite  game  birds.  Their  flesh  is  white  and  finely  flavored.  While 
walking  at  the  bottom  of  a  rocky  gorge  densely  wooded  on  either 
side,  I  was  attracted  by  an  uncanny,  indescribable  sound.  It  might 
have  been  a  partridge  drumming  a  great  distance  away,  but  it  evi- 
dently came  from  close  at  hand.  At  length  I  made  out  a  big,  black 
bird  in  the  shrubbery  hanging  from  the  steep  side  of  the  ravine.  At 
the  report  of  my  gun  the  bird  fell  and  another  flew  towards  me  and 
alighted  a  few  feet  away.  These  birds  appeared  to  have  little  fear 
of  man. 

Ortalis  cinereiceps    (Gray}. 

5  specimens.  3cT,  i  9  ,  i  sex  (?).  They  were  common  upon  the 
heavily  wooded  hillsides  marking  the  course  of  Guayabo  Creek 
They  were  usually  met  in  small  bands  and  were  quite  fearless.  When 
compared  with  specimens  in  this  Museum  the  Guayabo  birds  are 
seen  to  possess  darker  heads  and  more  richly  colored  breasts  —  deeper 
olivaceous  brown.  This  possibly  may  be  due  to  the  excellent  condi- 
tion of  plumage  which  the  birds  are  in.  The  birds  are  known  by  the 
widely-used  name  of  Chachalaca. 


II  a  11  id  t^. 

Aramides  albiventris  plumbeicollis  Zeledon. 

i  specimen.  Guayabo  d\  Compared  with  a  specimen  from 
Costa  Rica  the  Guayabo  bird  is  typical.  This  bird  was  taken  by  the 
side  of  a  tiny  stream  flowing  down  a  hillside  through  an  open  forest. 
No  others  were  seen. 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  261 


Columbictae. 

Columba  flavirostris  Wagl. 

3  specimens.      Guayabo  cT.        These  birds  were  abundant  about 
the  potrero,  where  they  resorted  to  dead  branches  of  the  tallest  trees 
during  the  sunny  mornings.     At  such  time  their  loud   cooing   could 
be   heard   anywhere.     They  roost  in  the  heavy  foliage  of  tall  trees. 
They  feed  upon  wild  fruits,  their  crops  being  frequently   distended 
with    large,    succulent    berries.      (Native    name    —    "  Berengena.") 
They  are  rather  shy  birds  and  are  known  among  the   natives  as 
"  Paloma,"  the  common  name  for  pigeon. 

Columba  albilinea  crissalis  Salv. 

4  specimens.     Vol.  de   Turrialba   cr.     These  birds  were  abundant 
in  the  open  forest  about  the  lecheria.     What  impresses  the  stranger 
most  is  the  exceedingly  loud  flapping  of  their  wings,  just  as  they  launch 
into  flight.     They  have  a  habit  of  remaining  perfectly  quiet,  well 
hidden  in  the  foliage,  and  fly  only  when  the  hunter  is   beneath   the 
tree.     This  sudden,  loud  wing-beating  is  then  often  quite  startling. 

Columba  nigrirostris  Scl. 

i  specimen.    Guayabo  cT.     Apparently  much  rarer  than  C.  flaviros- 
tris with  which  it  was  associated. 


CuculidaB. 

Piaya  cay  ana  thermophila   (Scl.). 

4  specimens.      Guayabo  icT,  2  9  ;    Coliblanco  id1. 

This  bird  was  common  at  Guayabo,  where  it  resorted  to  the 
dense  shrubbery.  Its  habit  of  running  along  branches  like  a  squirrel 
was  observed  several  times.  It  effects  its  escape  in  this  way  fre- 
quently. When  alarmed,  though,  the  bird  usually  seeks  safety  by 
remaining  perfectly  quiet.  At  Coliblanco  the  birds  were  observed 
several  times  in  the  tops  of  high  trees. 

Crotophaga  sulcirostris  Swains. 

10  specimens.  Guayabo  36^,  4$;  Coliblanco  i$;  Turrialba 
Station  2  9 . 


262     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  — ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

These  birds  are  abundant  in  the  lowlands  of  Costa  Rica,  becoming 
scarcer  at  higher  altitudes.  At  Guayabo  they  were  abundant,  but 
only  3  or  4  were  seen  at  Coliblanco. 


P&ittacidse. 

Conurus  finschi  Salv. 

1  specimen.      Guayabo    cT.     Screaming  flocks   of  these  were'  of 
frequent  occurrence.     This  specimen  has  no  sign  of  red  on  the  head, 
but  it  has  the  red  under  wing-coverts  of  finschi. 

Amazona  salvini   (Salv ad.}. 

2  specimens.     Guayabo  i  d\  i  9  .     When  these  specimens  are  com- 
pared with  a  series  they  show  themselves  brighter  and  lighter  colored, 
with  the  under  side  of  the  tail  bright  grass  green.    The  other  specimens 
have  tails  strongly  tinged  with  golden  yellow. 

This  handsome  species  was  abundant  about  Guayabo,  flying  about 
and  feeding  in  large  flocks.  In  some  cases,  however,  the  birds  were 
seen  going  in  pairs.  As  commonly  true  among  parrots  when  mated, 
each  individual  of  a  pair  shows  great  devotion  to  the  other,  refusing 
to  leave  the  site  where  its  mate  has  been  killed.  These  birds  were 
very  shy,  and  often  eluded  the  collector  by  keeping  perfectly  quiet 
while  hidden  in  the  foliage. 

Pionus  senilis   (Spix). 

2  specimens.  Guayabo  cT,  9.  This  pair  was  secured  from  the 
top  of  a  tree  at  one  shot.  Dissection  showed  active  sexual  organs. 

Pionopsittacus   hasmatotis   (Scl.  &  Salv.). 

5  specimens.      Guayabo  d\  9  ;  Coliblanco  2  d\  i  9  . 

These  birds  were  usually  seen  in  pairs,  each  bird  of  which  mani- 
fested the  greatest  attachment  for  the  other.  A  favorite  habit  of 
the  birds  was  to  perch  on  a  high  dead  branch  and  sun  themselves  for 
an  hour  or  longer. 


Momotidse. 


Momotus  lessoni  (Less.}. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo   9  . 


SEPT.,   1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA   RICA — FERRY.  263 

Prionornis  platyrhynchus   minor  Hart. 
i   specimen.     Guayabo    9 . 


Trochilidse 

Heliothrix  barroti    (Bourc.  &  Muls.). 

1  specimen.    Guayabo  d\    Several  of  these  strikingly  colored  birds 
were  seen,  but  they  were  not  common. 

Hemistephania  veraguensis    (Salv.}. 

2  specimens.     Coliblanco  2  9  . 

Thalurania  columbica  venusta    (Gould). 

ii  specimens.     Guayabo  gcT,  2  9  . 

Very  common  about  stubs  grown  with  flowering  vines.  Dissec- 
tion showed  birds  were  breeding  or  about  to  breed. 

Elvira  nigriventris   (Lawr.}. 
i  specimen.     Coliblanco  cT. 

Eupherusa  egregia  Scl.  &  Salv. 

3  specimens.     Coliblanco  id1,  2  sex?. 

Panterpe  insignis  Cab.  &  Heine. 

14  specimens.      Vol.  Turrialba  gcJ1,  4   9  ,  i  sex?. 

This  humming-bird  was  one  of  the  characteristic  birds  of  the 
forest  growing  at  the  base  of  the  Ash-cone.  The  abundance  of 
flower-bearing  trees  and  vines  made  the  open  forest  about  the  le- 
cheria  an  ideal  humming-bird  locality.  The  males  were  constantly 
engaged  in  combat,  performing  some  amazing  antics  while  on  the 
wing.  This  species  was  breeding  at  this  season.  A  fully  formed  yolk 
was  found  in  one  female,  while  two  others  showed  ovaries  at  the 
height  of  activity.  This  species  was  noticeable  for  the  frequency 
with  which  it  resorted  to  perching  and  the  length  of  time  it  spent  in 
this  position. 

Amazilis  tzacatl    (Llave). 

14  specimens.     Guayabo,  iod\  2   9  ;  Fort  Limon,  i   9  ,  i  sex?. 

A  male  taken  at  Guayabo  on  January  30  had  testes  in  a  state  of 
activity,  and  a  female  taken  at  the  same  place  on  January  27  showed 
active  ovaries. 


264     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  — ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

Eugenes  spectabilis  (Lawr.). 

2  specimens.     Coliblanco,  2  9  . 

Phaethornis  guy  coruscus     Bangs. 
i  specimen.     Coliblanco  9  . 

Oreopyra  calolaema  Salv. 

6  specimens.     Coliblanco  4  d\  i  9  ,  i  sex?. 

These  birds  were  common  about  a  flowering  vine  completely  en- 
closing a  huge  tree  trunk.  Few  or  none  were  seen  elsewhere.  "The 
above  tree  stood  isolated  in  the  potrero,  or  pasture. 

Heliodoxa  jacula  henryi    (Lawr.). 

9  specimens.     Coliblanco  5  d\  4$.     One  female  is  in   moulting 
plumage.     These  birds,  with  the  preceding  spscies,  were  common  about 
the  tree  referred  to. 

Selasphorus  torridus  Salv. 

10  specimens.      Vol.  de  Turrialba  9  6\  i  sex?. 

This  bird  was  common  about  the  park-like  forest,  adjacent  to 
the  lecheria,  and  with  the  exception  of  Junco  vulcani  was  the  only 
bird  found  near  the  summit  of  the  volcano.  This  hummer  fol- 
lowed the  vegetation  to  its  limit. 


Micropodldae. 

Chaetura  gaumeri  Lawr. 

2  specimens.     Guavabo  d\   9.     Common. 


Trogoniclse. 

Pharomacrus  mocinno  costaricensis   (Cab.}. 

7  specimens.     Coliblanco  i    9.     Vol.  de  Turrialba  2  d\  4  9. 

In  the  heavy  forest  at  the  base  of  the  Ash-cone  the  Quezal  was 
common,  though  one  unacquainted  with  its  habits  might  never 
see  one.  It  frequents  the  dense  forests  and  when  in  the  shade  of 
heavy  foliage  its  brilliant  colors  are  surprisingly  inconspicuous. 
The  birds  are  of  a  very  retiring  disposition  and  seldom  betray  their 
whereabouts  by  any  sound.  The  male,  however,  has  a  low  plaintive 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  265 

whistle  which  is  occasionally  heard.  The  natives  imitate  this  note 
and  lure  the  birds  to  their  destruction.  The  females  are  much  oftener 
seen  than  the  males. 

A  nest  of  this  species  was  found  in  a  dead  stump  standing  in  a 
partially  cleared  forest.  The  female's  head  was  seen  protruding  from 
a  hole  about  the  size  of  a  flicker's  and  some  12  feet  from  the  ground. 
While  we  were  in  the  vicinity  of  the  nest  the  male  bird  came  flying 
rapidly  by,  his  beautiful  tail  plumes  streaming  behind  in  a  most 
graceful  and  striking  manner.  He  alighted  upon  a  dead  limb  about 
30  feet  away  in  the  full  sunlight,  and  where  his  colors  shone  in  all 
their  glory.  The  two  males  observed  —  both  were  collected  —  sat 
with  their  backs  toward  the  observers.  They  never  showed  a  sign 
of  the  brilliant  red  breast.  A  boy  climbed  to  the  nest  above  referred 
to,  but  reported  that  it  was  empty. 

Trogon  puella  Gould. 

2  specimens.  Guayabo  2  9  .  These  birds  frequent  large  heavily 
foliaged  trees,  which  usually  bear  fruit  upon  which  the  birds  feed. 
A  round  fruit  with  a  thick  rind  appeared  to  be  a  favorite. 

Trogon  caligatus  Gould. 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  4  d\ 

Trogon   massena  Gould. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  cT. 

This  bird  is  noticeably  blue  on  the  rump,  but  on  comparison  with 
a  large  series  in  the  U.  S.  National  Museum  this  peculiarity  was 
shown  to  be  merely  a  case  of  individual  variation. 


6ralbulid.se. 

Galbula  melanogenia  Scl. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo,  sex?.     Found  in  heavily  wooded  portion 
of  forest  sitting  perfectly  motionless  on  a  branch. 


Capitonidse. 

Semnornis  frantzii   (Scl.). 

6   specimens.     Coliblanco    2    d\   4$.     This   very  odd    bird   was 
common  in  trees  studding  the  potrero  about  the  farm  house,  and  was 


266     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

met  in  low  situations  at  the  edges  of  ravines.  It  feeds  in  small  flocks, 
climbing  clumsily  about  the  branches.  It  shows  practically  no  fear 
of  man,  and  three  or  four  can  be  collected  from  a  single  tree. 


Rhamphastidse. 

Rhamphastos  brevicarinatus  Gould. 
3  specimens.     Guayabo  2  d\  i   9  . 

Common  about  edges  of  heavy  forest,  and  in  fruit-bearing  tree? 
—  usually  in  small  bands.  They  spend  much  time  sitting  motion- 
less on  a  limb  in  the  dense  shade  during  the  heat  of  the  day.  Fre- 
quently they  are  betrayed  only  by  the  brilliant  lemon-yellow  throat 
patch.  This  stands  out  in  bold  relief  and  seems  utterly  detached 
from  the  bird.  It  might  be  a  yellow  leaf  or  a  piece  of  hanging  fruit. 


Pteroglossus  torquatus 

5  specimens.      Guayabo  4  d\  i    9. 

Common.  Usually  in  flocks.  When  one  of  their  number  is  shot, 
the  whole  flock  will  remain  in  the  vicinity,  and  as  many  as  six  or 
seven  individuals  can  thus  be  secured.  Testes  of  one  male  showed 
approaching  activity. 

Aulacorhamphus  camileigularis  Gould. 

15  specimens.  Guayabo  4  d\  3  9  ;  Coliblanco  6  d\  2  9.  Com- 
mon in  small  flocks  feeding  on  fruits.  It  is  sluggish  and  unwary. 
At  Guayabo  it  was  found  roosting  in  the  tops  of  very  high  trees. 


Picitlre. 

Campephilus  guatemalensis   (Hart.}. 

1  specimen.     Guayabo  c?1.     This  specimen  was  the  only  one  seen. 

Dryobates  villosus  extimus  Bangs. 

7  specimens.     Coliblanco  4  d\  i    9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  i  dV  i   9. 
Common  at  Coliblanco,  less  so  at  base  of  Ash-cone. 

Sphyrapicus  varius   (Linn.}. 

2  specimens.     Coliblanco  9  February   13,  9  February   15.     One 
of  these  birds  was  moulting.     Others  were  seen. 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  267 

Centurus  pucherani   (Malh.}. 

8  specimens.     Guayabo  4  d\  3  9  ;     Port  Limon  i  6\ 

These  handsome  woodpeckers  were  abundant  at  Guayabo.      Not 

observed  at  Coliblanco  or  farther  up  the  volcano. 

Centurus  hoffmanni  Cab. 

5  specimens.     Guayabo  3  d\  2    9.     Common. 

Chloronerpes  simplex  Salv. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo   9  . 

Chloronerpes  yucatanensis  (Cabot). 
4  specimens.      Guayabo  i  d\,  3  9  . 


Tyraimidse. 

Copurus  leuconotus  Lafr. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\     Shot  from  the  top  of  a  tall  tree. 

Rhynchocyclus  cinereiceps   (Scl.). 
i  specimen.      Guayabo. 

Todirostrum  cinereum  finitimum  Bangs. 

6   specimens.     Guayabo    6  d\     Common   in   underbrush   and   at 
edges  of  clearings. 

Lophotriccus  squamaecristatus  minor  Cherrie. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo. 

Leptopogon  superciliaris  Cabanis. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\ 

Myiopagis  placens  accola  Bangs. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo   9  . 

Tyranniscus  vilissimus  parvus   (Lawr.). 

5    specimens.      Guayabo    2    c? ;    Coliblanco    i    d\    2     9.     Testes 
showed  approaching  activity. 

Elaenia  martinica  subpagana   (Scl.  &  Salv.}. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo   9  . 


268     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

Ela?nia  frantzii  Lawr. 

5  specimens.     Coliblanco  i  d1 ;  Vol.  de  Turrialba  4  cT. 

Myiozetetes  granadensis  Lawr. 

5  specimens.     Guayabo  i  d\  3  9  ,  i  sex?. 

Myiozetetes  texensis  (Giraud). 

8  specimens.     Turrialba  Station  i  6^ ;  Guayabo  3  cT,  4  9. 
Common  about  banana  plantation  near  house. 

Megarynchus  pitangua  mexicanus   (Lafr.). 

8  specimens.     Guayabo  i  d\  5  9  ;      Port  Limon  i  cT,  i  9  . 

These  birds  have  a  loud,  spirited  call,  which  they  utter  in  chorus 
at  daybreak.      During  the  day  they  frequent  dead  treetops. 

Myiodynastes   hemichrysus   (Cab.). 

7  specimens.     Coliblanco  3  d\  4  9  . 

Terenotriccus  erythrurus  fulvigularis   (Salv.  &  Godman). 

1  specimen.     Guayabo  9  . 

Mitrephanes  aurantiiventris   (Lawr.}. 

8  specimens.     Coliblanco  7  d\  i  9  . 
Common  in  shrubbery  and  at  edges  of  ravines. 

Empidonax  flaviventris   (Baird). 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  2    9  ,  i    9  ,  i  sex?.     Dates:   January  28, 
February  3,  February  4  (2). 

Empidonax  flavescens  Lawr. 

20  specimens.     Coliblanco  13  <5\  6  9  ,  i  sex?. 

Empidonax  atriceps  Salv. 

1 8  specimens.     Coliblanco  i  <5\  3   9.     Vol.  Turrialba  9  d\  3    9, 
2  sex?. 

Myiochanes  lugubris   (Lawr.). 

2  specimens.     Coliblanco  d\  9  .     In  open  forest  of  tall  trees. 

Nuttallornis  borealis  (Swains.). 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  9.     January  31. 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  269 

Myiarchus  lawrenceii  bangs!  Nelson. 

14  specimens.     Turrialba   Station,  i  sex?;    Guayabo   8  6\  4    9, 
i  sex?. 

Tyrannus  melancholicus  satrapa   (Cab.  &  Heine}. 

12  specimens.     Guayabo  7  d\  5   9. 

A  very  common  bird  about   plantations  and  in  the  vicinity  of 
dwellings. 

Muscivora  tyrannus   (Linn.}. 

3  specimens.     Guayabo  3  6\     Not  common. 


Pipridse. 

Corapipo  leucorrhoa  altera  Hellmayr. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\  in  immature  plumage. 


Cotiiiffidae. 

Tityra  semifasciata  costaricensis  Ridg. 

7  specimens.     Guayabo  4  d\  3   9. 

Tolerably  common  in  flocks  of  three  and  four  on  heavily  wooded 
slopes. 

Pachyrhamphus  versicolor  costaricensis  Bangs. 

1  specimen.     Coliblanco  i  d\ 

Pachyrhamphus  cinnamomeus  Lawr. 

2  specimens.     Guayabo,  i  d\  i    9. 

Erator  albitorques  (Du  Bus}. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  cT. 

Procnias  tricarunculata   (J.  and  E.Verreaux}. 

8  specimens.     Vol.  de  Turrialba  7  d\  i  sex?. 

Abundant  in  the  heavy  forest  about  the  base  of  the  Ash-cone. 
They  are  seldom  seen,  but  their  remarkable  notes  are  heard  with 
great  frequency  through  the  greater  part  of  the  day.  A  native 
showed  me  a  successful  way  of  hunting  these  birds.  It  consisted  in 
going  into  a  heavily  shaded  portion  of  the  forest  and  remaining  per- 


270     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

fectly  quiet.  After  a  long  wait,  we  began  to  get  glimpses  of  the  birds 
in  the  heavy  foliage,  and  soon  a  bird  flew  to  a  branch  in  plain  view. 
Most  of  the  above  8  specimens  were  secured  in  this  way.  The  native 
name  of  this  bird  is  "Calandria." 


Dendrocolaptid.se. 

Synallaxis  pudica  Scl. 

2  specimens.     Guayabo  2  cT.     Frequents  low  thickets. 

Siptornis  erythrops   (Scl.). 

1  specimen.     Guayabo  cT. 

Pseudocolaptes  lawrencei  Ridg. 

2  specimens.     Vol.  de  Turrialba. 

Automolus  cervinigularis  hypophasus  Ridg. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\ 

Xenicopsis  subalaris  lineatus   (Lawr.). 

i  specimen.     Coliblanco  d\     This  species  appears  to  vary  greatly 
in  the  amount  of  rufous  on  the  nape  and  on  the  throat  and  breast. 

Xenops  genibarbis  ///. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\     The  testes  of  this  bird  were  active. 

Xenops  rutilus  Licht. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  cT.     Testes  showed  recent  or  approaching 
activity. 

Premnoplex  brunnescens   (Scl.). 

3  specimens.     Guayabo,   9;   Coliblanco  d\   9. 

Margarornis  rubiginosa  Lawr. 

g  specimens.     Coliblanco  2  cT,  i   9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  2  d\  4  9  . 

These  birds  were  very  common  in  the  open  park-like  forest  at  the 
base  of  the  Ash-cone. 

Dendrornis  nana  costaricensis   (Ridg.). 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  ?  . 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS   FROM  COSTA   RICA — FERRY.  271 

Xiphocolaptes  emigrans  costaricensis  Ridg. 

i  specimen.      Guayabo   9  . 

Picolaptes  af finis   (Lafr.). 

15  specimens.     Coliblanco  5    j\  4    9,  i  sex?;    Vol.  de  Turrialba 

2  d\3   Q- 

This  is  one  of  the  most  characteristic  birds  about  the  volcano. 

Picolaptes  compressus  (Cab.). 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  2  d\  i   9  ;  Port  Limon  i  -5"'. 


Formicariidte. 

Cymbilanius  lineatus  fasciatus  Ridg. 
2  specimens.  Guayabo  9  ,  i  sex  ?. 
Found  in  tree  tops  in  dense  low  forests. 

Thamnophilus  doliatus  mexicanus  Allen. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\ 

Dysithamnus  mentalis  septentrionalis  Ridg. 

5  specimens.     Guayabo  5  Q  . 

Cercomacra  tyrannina  crepera  Bangs. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  cT. 


Pteroptochicljip. 

Scytalopus  argentifrons  Ridg. 

i  specimen.  Coliblanco  cT.  In  deep,  jungle-grown  ravine,  I 
heard  the  bird's  sharp,  scolding  note  and  remained  perfectly  quiet. 
The  curiosity  of  the  bird  led  it  to  within  a  few  feet  of  me. 


Catharus  gracilirostris  Salv. 

ii  specimens.     Vol.  de  Turrialba  5  <5\  2  9  ;  Coliblanco  3  cf ,  i   9  . 


272     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

Common  among  fallen  trees  and  shrubbery.  Like  a  small  Hylo- 
cichla  in  general  behavior. 

Myadestes  melanops  Salv. 

4  specimens.     Coliblanco  3  cT,  i    9. 

This  very  retiring  bird  was  occasionally  seen  in  ravines  and  in 
dense  patches  of  shrubbery. 

Planesticus  grayi  casius    (Bonap.). 

4  specimens.  Guayabo  2  d\  2  9.  These  birds  roosted  in  the 
tops  of  very  high  trees,  coming  from  all  directions  at  evening  time. 

Planesticus  plebejus  (Cab.). 

24  specimens.     Coliblanco  18  d\  4  9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  2  d\ 
This  species  was  a  characteristic  bird  about  the  potrero  at  Coli- 
blanco.    They  came  in  large  numbers  to  fruit-bearing  trees.     The 
plumage  is  very  loosely  embedded  in  the  skin.     The  birds  have  a 
call  note  like  our  American  robin. 

Planesticus  nigrescens  (Cab.). 

14  specimens.      Vol.  de  Turrialba  gd\  5  9  . 

This  species  was  abundant  in  the  open  forest  at  base  of  Ash-cone. 
It  is  very  robin-like  in  character,  and  not  as  shy  as  the  two  preceding 
species. 


Troglodytidse. 

Heleodytes  zonatus  costaricensis  (Berl.). 

15   specimens.       Guayabo  4  d\   6  9,  .1  sex?;    Coliblanco   i  d\ 

3   9. 

This  bird  seemed  to  be  in  every  conceivable  sort  of  bird  haunt. 
It  was  as  much  at  home  among  the  tops  of  the  tallest  trees  as  in  low 
shrubbery  or  about  fallen  trees.  Its  favorite  spot,  however,  is  prob- 
ably in  densely  clustered  vines  growing  about  tree  trunks. 

Troglodytes  musculus  intermedius   (Cab.). 

15  specimens.     Guayabo  4  <5\  5   9  ;   Coliblanco  5  cT,  i   9  . 

This  series,  all  taken  upon  the  Atlantic  slope,  is  identical  with  a 
specimen  taken  in  San  Jose",  the  type  locality  of  the  species.  These 
birds  were  common  in  haunts  usually  frequented  by  wrens,  but  also 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  273 

showed  a  decided  fondness  for  patches  of  tall  grass.     They  were  fre- 
quently flushed  from  such  places,  after  the  manner  of  the  marsh  wren. 

Troglodytes  ochraceus  Ridg. 

3  specimens.     Coliblanco  cT,   9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  c? . 
This  spry  little  wren  was  found  about  logs  and  hollow  trees  stand- 
ing in  open  places. 

Henicorhina  prostheleuca  pittieri    (Cherrie). 

1  specimen.     Guayabo  9  . 

Thryophilus  thoracicus   (Salv.). 

2  specimens.      Guayabo  i    9,  i  sex?. 


SylvlidsB. 

Polioptila  superciliaris  magna  Ridg. 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  i  d\  i    9  ,  2  sex'. 


Hiruiidinidse. 

Progne  chalybea   (Gmelin). 

2  specimens.     Guayabo  d\   9. 

Stelgidopteryx  salvini  Ridg. 

i  specimen.      Guayabo    9  .      Shot  from  a  flock,   probably  of  the 
same  species. 


Ptilogonys  caudatus  Cab. 

10  specimens.     Vol.  de  Turrialba  4  cJ1,  6  9  . 

This  handsome  bird  was  one  of  the  characteristic  species  of  the 
open  forests  about  the  volcano.  Its  habits  are  flycatcher-like.  The 
species  was  breeding. 

Phainoptila  melanoxantha  Salv. 

5  specimens.      Vol.  de  Turrialba  5  d\ 
A  retiring  species  loving  heavy  foliage. 


274     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 


Vireosylva  philadelphica  Cass. 

3  specimens.     Guayabo  2   d1,  Feb.   i  to  Feb.  4;    Port  Limon   9  , 
Mar.  9. 

Vireosylva  josepha?  costaricensis  Ridg. 

i  specimen.     Coliblanco  cT. 

Lanivireo  flavifrons   (Vieill.). 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\  February  4. 

Vireo  carmioli  Baird. 

4  spscimens.     Coliblanco  2  d\  i   9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  i   d*. 

Cyclarhis  flavipectus  subflavescens   (Cab.}. 
i  specimen.     Coliblanco  9  . 


CorvidsB. 

Psilorhinus  mexicanus  cyanogenys   (Skarpe}. 

6  specimens.     Guayabo  i  d\  4  9  ;  Coliblanco  i  cT. 

This  noisy  jay  was  very  common  at  Guayabo,  but  less  so  at  Coli- 
blanco. They  usually  rove  about  in  small  bands  (5  to  10)  screaming 
a  great  deal.  They  are  magpie-like  in  habits,  and  often  visit  the 
vicinity  of  dwellings. 


Coerebidae. 

Diglossa  plumbea     Cab. 

24  specimens.     Coliblanco  10  d\  6  9  ;  Vol.  de  Turrialba  5  d\  3  9  . 

This  interesting  little  bird  haunted  vine-hung  trees,  many  indi- 
viduals being  found  together.  It  is  very  active,  flitting  quickly 
from  twig  to  twig  and  keeping  almost  constantly  in  the  deep  shade. 
Occasionally  one  will  fly  out  and  hover  in  front  of  a  flower  after  t  he 
manner  of  a  humming-bird.  The  natives  sometimes  refer  to  this 
bird  as  "Azul."  The  males  look  quite  blue  in  the  sunlight.  One 
female  had  been  incubating. 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA — FERRY.  275 

Chlorophanes  spiza  guatemalensis   (Scl.). 

4  specimens.      Guayabo  2  o".  Port  Limon  i  d\  i   9  . 

Dacnis  venusta  Lawr. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\ 

Coereba  mexicana   (Scl.). 

3  specimens.      Guayabo  2   9  ,  i  cT  im. 

Tolerably  common  about  plantations.  Ovaries  of  one  female  active. 


Miiiotiltitlit*. 
Mniotilta   varia    (Linn.). 

3  specimens.      Guayabo  i    cT,  Jan.   20;  Port    Limon  i    9,  Mar.  g; 
Coliblanco  i  d\  Feb.  19. 

Helmitheros  vermivorus   (Gmelin). 

i  specimen  in  fine  plumage.     Guayabo  d\  January  24. 

Vermivora  peregrina   (Wilson). 

1 8  specimens.  Guayabo  8  cT,  5  9,  i  sex?;  Turrialba  Station 
i  9  ;  Vol.  de  Turrialba  i  cT1,  i  sex? ;  Port  Limon  i  9  . 

This  species  was  the  commonest  North  American  bird  met  in  the 
tropics.  At  Guayabo  it  was  profusely  abundant.  A  male  taken  at 
Guayabo  on  January  16  was  undergoing  an  extensive  moult. 

Vermivora  chrysoptera   (Linn.). 

4  specimens.      Guayabo  3  d\  i   9  . 

Tolerably  common  at  edges  of  deeply  wooded  ravines.  In  full 
spring  plumage. 

Oreothlypis  gutturalis   (Cab.). 

8  specimens.     Coliblanco  4  cT,  i   9  .     Vol.  de  Turrialba  3  cT. 

Found  among  outer  branches  of  high  trees.  The  lower  limit  of 
its  range  was  1,000  feet  above  Coliblanco. 

Compsothlypis  pitiayumi  speciosa  Ridg. 

8  specimens.     Guayabo  3  d\  3  9  ,  i  sex?;   Coliblanco  i  cT . 
The  habits  of  this  bird  are  very  like  those  of  the  Parula  warbler. 

Dendroica  magnolia   (Wilson). 

i  specimen.      Guayabo   9,  January  16. 


276     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

Dendroica  coronata   (Linn.). 

3   specimens.     Guayabo   2    <5\    i     9,  January   20,  23. 

Dendroica  virens   (Gmeliri). 

7  specimens.  Coliblanco  i  d\  February  20,  3  9  Feb.  9,  13,  22; 
Vol.  de  Turrilaba  3  d\  Feb.  25,  26,  27. 

Dendroica  fusca  (Mull.}. 

6  specimens.  Guayabo  i  d\  Jan.  24,  3  9,  Feb.  4,  5,  i  sex? 
Jan.  23;  Coliblanco  i  d\  Feb.  22.  Only  one  male  in  full  spring 
plumage. 

Dendroica  pensylvanica   (Linn.}. 

13  specimens.  Guayabo  d\  January  16,  17,  25,  26,  30,  February 
i,  9  January  27,  20,  24,  28,  February  4,  i;  Port  Limon  9,  Mar.  9. 

But  one  of  these  specimens  has  the  fully  adult  plumage  —  a  male 
taken  at  Guayabo  January  25. 

Oporornis  Philadelphia   (Wilson}. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\  February  4. 

Qeothlypis  trichas   (Linn.}. 

1  specimen.     Guayabo  o   im.,  January  27. 

Geothlypis  semiflava  bairdi   (Nutting). 

2  specimens.     Guayabo  i  6\  i  sex?. 

Wilsonia  pusilla   (Wilson). 

5  specimens.  Guayabo  d\  January  20,  9  January  28,  January 
28,  sex?  January  25,  January  26. 

These  specimens  are  quite  easily  referable  to  the  above  species. 
It  is  noteworthy  that  all  specimens  of  pusilla  were  taken  below  4,000 
feet,  they  apparently  not  mingling  with  pileolata,  the  bird  found  at 
higher  elevations.  Bangs  records  pusilla  from  northwestern  Costa 
Rica,  and  implies  in  his  remarks  concerning  it  that  it  is  a  bird  occur- 
ring at  lower  levels  than  pileolata*. 

Wilsonia  pusilla  pileolata   (Pallas}. 

35  specimens.  Coliblanco  15  d\  8  9,  5  sex?;  Vol.  de  Turrialba 
3  cT,  i  9,3  sex?. 

These  birds  were  profusely  abundant  about  the  potrero  at  Coli- 
blanco. They  were  in  all  conceivable  situations,  and  frequently 

*Proc.  Biol.  Soc.  Wash.,  XXII,  p.  36,  March  10,  1909. 


SEPT.,  1910          BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  277 

uttering  their  sharp  sparrow-like  note.  About  the  volcano  they  were 
less  common.  This  is  evidently  a  bird  of  high  altitudes  while  within 
its  winter  range.  See  remarks  on  preceding  species. 

Setophaga  ruticilla   (Linn.). 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  3  cT,  Jan.  16,  Feb.  i,  i    9  Jan.  28. 
Common  while  migrating.     Males  in  fully  adult  plumage. 

Myioborus  aurantiacus   (Baird). 

19  specimens.     Guayabo  2  d\  2  9  ,  i  sex?;    Coliblanco  10  d\  4  9  . 
Haunts  shrubbery.      Redstart-like  in  habits. 

Myioborus  torquatus   (Baird). 

8  specimens.     Coliblanco  3  d\  4  9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  i  sex?. 
Occurs  at  edges  of  deep  ravines,  in  shrubbery,  about  fallen   logs, 

etc.  Very  sprightly  and  pretty.  This  and  the  preceding  are  quite 
similar  in  habits. 

Basileuterus  rufifrons  delattrii    (Bonap.). 

9  specimens.     Guayabo  5  d\  3  9  ,  i  sex?. 

These  birds  show  a  decided  grayness  at  the  back  of  the  neck,  but 
comparison  with  a  series  in  the  National  Museum  shows  this  feature 
to  be  largely  a  matter  of  individual  variation. 

Basileuterus  melanogenys  Baird. 

4  specimens.     Coliblanco  2  cT ;   Vol.  de  Turrialba  2  d\ 
These  birds  were  met  at  the  edges  of  heavy  forests.    They  live  near 
the  ground  and  are  somewhat  wren-like  in  habits. 

Basileuterus  culicivorus  godmani  Berlep. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\ 


Chlorophonia  callophrys   (Cab.). 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  i  cT ;   Coliblanco  cT,  9  ;   Vol.  de  Turrial- 
ba d\ 

In  heavy  foliage  of  tree-tops. 

Euphonia  luteicapilla   (Cab.). 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  c5\ 


278     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

Euphonia  gouldi  Scl. 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  cT. 

Calospiza  icterocephala  (Bonap.). 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  9  . 

Calospiza  guttata  chrysophrys   (Scl.). 

1  specimen.     Guayabo  9  . 

Calospiza  gyroloides  (Lafr.). 

2  specimens.     Guayabo  2  d\ 

These  birds  usually  keep  well  hidden  among  the  heavily  foliaged 
tree-tops. 

Calospiza  dowii   (Sato.). 

7  specimens.     Coliblanco  5  d\  2    9. 

Common  in  palms,  usually  going  about  in  two's  and  three's. 

Calospiza  larvata  fanny  (Lafr.). 

4  specimens.     Guayabo  i  d\  i   9  ;  Port  Limon  i  d\  T   9  . 
Frequents  palm-trees. 

Tangara  cana  Swains. 

6  specimens.     Guayabo  4  cJ1 ,  i   9  ;   Port  Limon  i   9  . 

Common  in  tops  of  trees  standing  in  clearings.  At  night  roosts 
in  tops  of  tallest  trees.  In  daytime  visits  banana  plantations.  It 
is  shy  and  easily  alarmed. 

Piranga  rubra   (Linn.). 

8  specimens.     Guayabo  2   cT  in  full  plumage,  i    9,  3  sex?    im. ; 
Coliblanco  i  cT  im.,  i    9. 

Common.     Usually  in  trees  bearing  wild  berries  and  fruits. 

Piranga  bidentata  sanguinolenta   (Lafr.). 

5  specimens.   Coliblanco   6\ 

These  birds  are  very  richly  colored  in  comparison  with  another 
series  in  the  Field  Museum  collection. 

Ramphocelus  passerinii  Bonap. 

10  specimens.     Guayabo  6  d\  i    9  ,  i  c?  im. ;    Port  Limon,  i  cT> 

i  9. 

This  handsome  tanager  was  common  in  shrubbery  and  about 
plantations.  »At  this  time  a  male  and  female  were  usually  found 
together. 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA  —  FERRY.  279 

Chlorospingus  regionalis  Bangs. 

1 8  specimens.     Coliblanco  12  d\  6   9. 

In  company  with  C.  pileatus  and  much  like  it  in  habits. 

Chlorospingus  pileatus  Salv. 

26  specimens.     Coliblanco  n  c?,  i  9  ;  Vol.  de  Turrialba  9  o1,  5  9  . 

The  most  abundant  bird  about  Coliblanco,  and  nearly  as  common 
at  base  of  Ash-cone.  They  are  ubiquitous,  scarcely  a  bird  haunt 
seems  without  them.  Shrubbery  and  vine-covered  trees  are  their 
favorite  places. 

Chlorospingus  olivaceiceps    Underwood. 
2  specimens.     Guayabo  2  cT. 


Icteridee. 

Zarhynchus  wagleri    (Gray}. 

3  specimens.     Turrialba  Station  i   9  ;  Guayabo  cT  ;  Coliblanco  9  . 
Common  at  Turrialba  Station  but  not  elsewhere. 

Gymnostinops  montezuma   (Less.}. 

9  specimens.     Guayabo  4  cT,  4  9  ,  i  sex?. 

Abundant  at  Guayabo  but  not  positively  identified  elsewhere. 
No  nesting  site  was  discovered  and  dissection  showed  the  birds  were 
not  breeding.  They  roved  about  in  large,  noisy  bands.  Their  great 
variety  of  notes  is  absolutely  indescribable.  Screeches,  grunts, 
groans  and  whistles  all  can  be  recognized  in  the  discord  emanating 
from  a  flock.  This  species  and  the  preceding  possess  a  peculiar 
strong,  musky  odor. 

Icterus  prosthemelas  (Strickland). 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  d\ 

This  specimen  was  taken  in  a  vine-covered  stub  standing  in  the 
heavy  forest. 

Icterus  gal  hula    (Linn.}. 

3  specimens.  Guayabo  cT,  moulting  into  the  fully  adult  plumage; 
C?  immature;  9  in  winter  plumage.  Dates:  January  16,  February 
5,  February  5. 


280    FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

Sturnella  magna  inexpectata  Ridg. 

5  specimens.     Guayabo  4  6\  i  9  . 

Common  on  the  potrero.  The  birds  were  remarkably  silent  for 
meadow-larks.  Their  notes  were  seldom  heard.  They  had  a  habit 
of  making  short  flights  and  dropping  into  the  long  grass.  Here  they 
would  flush  only  when  the  collector  was  one  or  two  steps  away. 


•  Friiigillida*. 

Spiza  americana   (Gmelin). 

i  specimen.     Guayabo  6\  January  20. 

Junco  vulcani   (Boucard). 

4  specimens.     Vol.  de  Turrialba  2  d\  2   9  . 

These  birds  were  common  on  and  slightly  below  the  summit 
(i  1,000  ft.  approx.).  They  found  shelter  in  some  green  bushes  growing 
close  to  the  trickles  of  water  issuing  from  the  sides  of  the  crater. 
They  were  the  only  birds  upon  the  summit  of  this  volcano. 

Brachyspiza  capensis  peruviana  (Less.). 

24  specimens.     Coliblanco  12  cT,  6  9  ;  Vol.  de  Turrialba  5  cT,  i  9  . 

Wanders  about  shrubbery  in  small  troops.  This  bird  was  not 
breeding.  In  its  fondness  for  the  vicinity  of  human  dwellings  and 
in  many  of  its  habits  this  bird  resembles  the  slate-colored  junco. 
The  Costa  Rica  species  has  a  pleasing  song. 

Arremonops  conirostris  richmondi  Ridg. 
4  specimens.     Guayabo  3  d\  i    9. 

Atlapetes  gutturalis  (Lafr.). 

i  specimen.     Coliblanco  cJ1. 

Pselliophorus  tibialis  (Lawr.}. 

12  specimens.     Coliblanco  3  d\  4  9  ;  Vol.  de  Turrialba  3  d\  2  9  . 

This  bird  frequents  thickets  in  clearings  and  at  the  edge  of  forests. 
It  is  usually  found  flitting  about  brush-piles,  fallen  trees  and  in  a  great 
variety  of  places,  exploring  each  place  thoroughly.  However,  it 
never  goes  but  a  short  flight  from  the  heavy  forest  shade.  The  bright 
yellow  thigh  patches  may  be  for  the  purpose  of  protectively  disguis- 
ing the  bird.  Once  while  looking  toward  a  large  fallen  tree,  in  which 


SEPT.,  1910.         BIRDS  FROM  COSTA  RICA — FERRY  281 

were  several  cave-like  spaces,  I  saw  what  appeared  to  be  a  small, 
yellow  moth  flitting  about  in  one  of  these  spaces.  A  moment  later 
I  was  surprised  to  see  a  bird  of  the  above  species  hop  into  view.  The 
supposed  wings  of  the  moth  were  in  reality  the  yellow  thigh  patches 
of  this  bird. 

Pezopetes  capitalis  Cab. 

2  specimens.     Vol.  de  Turrialba  i   9  ,  i  sex?. 

Found  in  vine-hung  tree-tops.   It  seldom  ventured  into  open  view. 

Tiaris  olivacea  pusilla   (Swains.'). 

9  specimens.  Turrialba  Station  2  9  ;  Guayabo  2  d\  3  9  ;  Coli- 
blanco  3  d\ 

A  very  characteristic  bird  about  plantations,  by  roadsides  and 
in  shrubbery  at  edges  of  clearings.  Moves  about  in  small  flocks. 

Sporophila  corvina   (Scl.). 

2  specimens.     Guayabo  &  ;  Port  Limon  9  . 
Not  common. 

Sporophila  morelleti   (Bonap.}. 

17  specimens.  Turrialba  Station  i  sex?,  i  cT ;  Guayabo  7  d\ 
6  9  ,  i  sex  ? ;  Coliblanco  i  9  . 

There  are  no  fully  adult  males  in  the  above  series. 

A  common  bird  in  shrubbery  and  rank  vegetation.  The  birds 
rove  about  in  small  flocks,  and  there  is  seldom  more  than  one  adult 
male  seen  among  them  —  often  not  one. 

Pheucticus  tibialis  Baird. 

i  specimen.     Coliblanco  6\ 

This  specimen  and  one  other  the  only  ones  seen. 

Saltator  atriceps  lacertosus  Bangs. 
i  specimen.     Guayabo  cT. 
These  birds  haunt  shrubbery  and  are  of  a  retiring  disposition. 

Saltator  magnoides  medianus  Ridg. 

5  specimens.     Guayabo  4  9  ;   Port  Limon  i  cT. 

When  compared  with  a  series  in  the  Field  Museum  collection  the 
above  five  birds  are  practically  identical  with  the  series.  They 
are  undoubtedly  S.  m.  medianus,  notwithstanding  the  fact  that 
two  specimens  have  the  black  jugular  color  interrupted.  This  fact 


282     FIELD  MUSEUM  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  —  ORNITHOLOGY,  VOL.  I. 

might  indicate  that  they  belong  with  5.  m.  inter  medius,  the  bird  from 
Panama  and  Veragua,  but  in  other  characters  they  are  typical  of 
medianus,  being  darker  gray  on  the  forehead,  and  having  the  belly 
grayish  rather  than  brownish.  Moreover,  the  specimens  in  question 
are  from  a  locality  midway  between  the  type  localities  of  the  above 
two  races,  and  it  is  reasonable  to  expect  that  signs  of  intergradation 
might  occur. 


